There is nothing like travelling by rail, it possess a quality and elegance, even romance which no other mode of transport offers, and provides you with a completely different aspect and perspective when exploring a new destination. Our ground handlers have ridden the rails in Australia on the Ghan, experienced the canadian wilderness on the rocky mountaineer and been exhilarated by Japan’s super sleek bullet trains, each a different offering for the traveller. The Blue Train in South Africa trundles through some of the most stunning landscapes which can only be seen by rail yet combines luxury accommodation with gourmet food all encased in beautiful surroundings and creates an amazing train journey worthy of the bucket list, or as part of a honeymoon from Belfast. Closer to home there is the most special experience waiting to be had on the Orient express. Each carriage with its own story to tell exudes quality, history and if only the walls could speak,what tales they would tell of all of the travellers who have tramped the narrow carriage hallways, ranging from Hitler to honeymooners and not forgetting the infamous crime sleuth, Agatha Christie. This is one rail journey where you are really made to feel special, the attention to detail is unsurpassed whether you are enjoying your welcome flutes of champagne in your cabin as your journey begins to weave its way through the ever changing countryside or enjoying the unforgettable and exquisite food produced from the tiniest of galley kitchens. Not forgetting relaxing in the bar car after dinner listening to the piano and enjoying one of Walter’s cocktails. The most memorable trip awaits and definitely a well worthwhile rail journey!

For the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information, check www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

CALIFORNIA COOL: Proper Hotel, San Francisco’s hottest new boutique stay It took four years to revive an early 1900s flatiron-style building in San Francisco’s Mid-Market neighbourhood into one of the coolest new luxury boutique hotels in San Francisco.